Wirral pubs and clubs are being advised on how to keep their punters safe over the Christmas period.

Wirral Council and Merseyside Police have joined forces to deliver messages to networks of premises across the borough including valuable information and guidance to ensure businesses can deal with potential problems.

Under the terms of their license to sell alcohol retailers are required to serve responsibly and premises across Wirral are committing to make sure their employees understand this pledge.

Key points being pushed to businesses include not serving alcohol to anyone who is clearly drunk, challenge anyone who does not look old enough to drink and to not serve them if they cannot provide appropriate ID.

Wirral council cabinet member for environment, Cllr Bernie Mooney said: “Everyone has a right to be able to celebrate safely at this time of year and staff working in licensed premises should also not be put in any danger.

“We all have a responsibility to look out for one another and by sharing information across licensed premises and reminding them of the steps they can take to provide a secure environment for staff and customers, I hope everyone will have a safe and enjoyable festive period.”

Wirral superintendent Tracy Hayes from Merseyside Police added: "We have been working in partnership with our licensees in the Birkenhead and the Heswall night time economy.

“Pubs and bars are now taking more responsibility in not serving people who are already drunk or believed to be underage and this is playing a part in keeping Wirral a safe place for visitors to enjoy.

"Licensees have been made fully aware of the law and their responsibilities under the Licensing Act and have educated bar staff after what to do if someone comes to the bar intoxicated demanding a drink.

"All staff and customers in licensed premises have the right to work and socialise at safe and enjoyable places. Police officers will be conducting multi-agency visits to licensed premises at peak times across Wirral over the festive period and we will be there primarily to keep people safe while they are having a good time.

"People need take responsibility themselves and watch what they drink so that their behaviour does not let them down and ruin an otherwise great night out.

"My message to people over the festive period is this: enjoy yourselves, pace yourselves, take responsibility for your own behaviour and ensure you wake up the next morning with memories of a great night out with friends rather than regret and a sore head."